Three weeks ago I had a molar get severely infected. We had a snow storm, and I couldn't see my dentist for 24 hours.

While my dentist (in whom I have complete confidence) was inspecting the tooth, he was contemplating a root canal. However, after about 20 minutes he abruptly concluded that the tooth needed to be extracted "today". He told me the tooth was too severely cracked.

We discussed oral surgeons. I mentioned one nearby. His receptionist called to secure an appointment.

When I arrived at the oral surgeon's office, we (wifey + me) filled out about 1/2 hour of paperwork. After that was completed, I handed in my x-Rays.

I was then processed. They took more X-rays. Finally, the oral surgeon (I think an MD) took a minute to examine me. As soon as he saw my swollen mouth, he said that he could do nothing that day, except to "lance" the infection. He also said my blood pressure was too high, and I would have to get medication to lower it before he would do anything.

I had a very bad feeling about this person (MD or DDS) and got up and left.

Two hours later, I had the tooth extracted by another oral surgeon about 20 miles away. He diagnosed the general condition as Ludwig's Angina. He added that if the tooth was not removed, I would require hospital care within one week.

Just to add, before the advent of antibiotics, Ludwig's Angina was fatal in approximately 50&#37; of cases. Even today, it is considered extremely serious.

Bottom line, I now have a bill for $100 of X-rays from the first oral surgeon. I certainly don't want to pay him. But should I report him to authorities?

Last edited by toms641; 03-10-2007 at 04:15 AM.
Reason: add more explanation

I called the Oral Surgeon's office today to challenge the bill. At first, the woman (an RN?) on the phone was saying "well, you have to pay for..." blah blah blah.

When I mentioned to her that the second oral surgeon diagnosed the problem as Ludwig's Angina, she immediately said that they would credit my bill, forget about the $100 charge, let's all just be friends.

So, water over the dam.

And I didn't file a complaint form, charging incompetence (maybe I should have)